Türkiye’s trade ministry has implemented stringent import regulations for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) from several countries, notably China.
Kabuk 24: This decision, published in the Official Gazette, follows a previous move in June to limit electric vehicle imports.
New Import Conditions
To import PHEVs not manufactured within the European Union or countries with which Türkiye has free trade agreements, importers must establish 20 authorized service centers across seven regions of the country. Analysts indicate that currently, no importers meet these requirements. Erol Sahin, founder of EBS Danismanlik consultancy, noted that all future imports of PHEVs will be blocked except for existing stock, while other hybrid vehicles already face high customs taxes.
Pressure on Chinese Manufacturers
This regulatory shift appears to be part of Ankara’s strategy to exert pressure on Chinese automakers amid ongoing discussions about local production investments.
In July, China’s BYD reached an agreement with the Turkish government to construct a $1 billion plant capable of producing 150,000 vehicles annually. Reports suggest that BYD’s investment process is progressing smoothly despite warnings from China regarding overseas investments.
Market Dynamics
The Turkish domestic car market remained stable at 762,000 units for the first eight months of the year, with a notable increase in Chinese brand imports, which more than doubled to 63,000 units, capturing an 8% market share. Meanwhile, European sales of fully electric vehicles have been declining faster than those of hybrids.
